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Louisiana LIHEAP Service Delivery Guide 54 | P a g e

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LIHEAP may not exceed the total amount for the service. The Subgrantee shall obligate the funds necessary to resolve the crisis situation in a timely manner. In the event the cost exceeds the LIHEAP benefit, additional resources must be documented to show how the remaining financial balance was met. To receive reimbursement for the purchase of a Repair/Replacement benefit, the Subgrantee shall complete an application in LES with the Subgrantee’s name listed as the energy vendor. The Subgrantee shall also submit to LHC documentation verifying the need and purchase of the service (i.e., receipt, repair invoices). Reimbursement shall be limited to those costs that are reasonable and customary and shall not exceed the maximum crisis benefit. The payment will be processed by the Subgrantee in the same manner as bill payment assistance. If a service is needed to replace or repair an air conditioner, central air conditioning unit, a furnace, or a vented heater, an applicant does not need a disconnect notice. 5.3 Disaster Relief Benefits (In-Kind Benefits) LHC use of LIHEAP Funding for Disaster Relief is based on LIHEAP regulations at 45 CFR 96.50(e). Subgrantees may provide an in-kind benefit (in accordance with the Louisiana Disaster Relief Policy), not to exceed the maximum allowable crisis benefit per household, in times of disaster relief. Impacted clients may be eligible for one in-kind/disaster relief benefit and one bill payment/equipment repair/replacement benefit per 12-month period. An explanation of the disaster should be included in the applicant's record. The cost for disaster relief will be reimbursed to the Subgrantee. The Subgrantee should expend the funds necessary to resolve the crisis situation in a timely manner. Allowable uses of LIHEAP funds to deal with crisis situations, particularly with respect to assistance for home energy related needs resulting from a hurricane or other natural disaster in areas included in a declared disaster area, include the following:  Costs to temporarily shelter or house individuals in hotels, apartments, or other living situations in which homes have been destroyed or damaged, i.e., placing people in settings to preserve health and safety and to move them away from the crisis situation.